How old is the swallowtail jig?
The Swallowtail Jig (or Drioball na fáinleoige) is a double jig popular in Ireland, Britain and North America. Often used as an introductory tune for beginners, it has been around since at least the mid-19th century when it appeared in Ryan’s Mammoth and Kerr’s Merry Melodies collections.
A Message from Katy Adelson
Hello! My name is Katy, and I love to play the violin — especially traditional fiddle music — and I have so much fun writing fun little pieces! I love sharing my arrangements and original music. I hope they inspire others to play and create music, too!
There are lots of free downloads of my sheet music arrangements available in the my webshop, “Golden Aspen Music,” as well as a few things for sale. I hope you find some inspiration using the files! Thank you for visiting, and happy fiddling!
~Katy
From: – https://katyadelson.com/
It is frequently employed as the melody for Northumbrian sword dancing. French-Canadian fiddler Joseph Allard recorded it as “Gigue de Barnabé” in 1931 in A minor, possibly to honor one of his Quebec neighbors, Barnabé Morin. The tune’s title may be a reference to the type of coat with tails typically worn by early 19th century dancing masters. Its exact origin is unknown, but it is generally credited as an Irish tune. The Swallowtail Jig belongs to Bayard’s “protean” “Welcome Home” family of tunes.
References:
1. https://www.ibiblio.org/fiddlers/SW_SWALLOW.html
Exploring the Best Places to Listen to Traditional Irish Music
Sharing is caring!
Exploring the Best Places to Listen to Traditional Irish Music
Ireland has long been known as one of the best places in the world to experience traditional folk music. From lively pubs and restaurants to festivals and other events, there is no shortage of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the culture. Here are just a few of the best places to listen and appreciate Irish music:
Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
Sharing is caring!
Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
Are you planning a trip to Ireland? If so, then the Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide is an essential resource. From money and travel documents to facts about Ireland and Irish customs, this guide will give you all the information you need for your trip.
Nothing like Traditional Irish Music in a Pub – Dolan’s pub (Limerick, Ireland)
Sharing is caring!
Traditional Irish Music – A visit to a traditional Irish pub with live music should be on your list when visiting Ireland.
Every evening, musicians come to Dolan’s pub and play traditional Irish music to the customers’ delight. If you are in Limerick, you should definitely have a pint there!
Ready for that trip to Ireland? Start planning here!
☘️ You Might Also Love
64,000 Ireland lovers can’t be wrong.
Every week, our free newsletter delivers hidden gems, seasonal guides, local stories, and practical travel tips — straight to your inbox. Join the community that loves Ireland as much as you do.
FREE GUIDE: 25 Hidden Gems of Ireland That Most Tourists Never Find (PDF)
☘️ Want More Hidden Ireland?
Join 64,000+ subscribers who discover Ireland’s best-kept secrets every week.
Subscribe Free — Join the Community →
Free forever · Unsubscribe anytime · No spam
📥 Free Download: Ireland Travel Planning Guide
Our most popular resource — itineraries, insider tips, and the 50 places you must not miss.
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!